South Dakota American Legion Boys State
May 29 - June 2, 2023
Northern State University
Boys State citizens and families: Welcome to American Legion Boys State at Northern!
South Dakota Boys State was founded in 1940 in Aberdeen, with a twofold purpose:
- To better help youth understand and appreciate the American system of government and way of life, including the rights and responsibilities of citizenship; and
- To give a better knowledge of the fundamental establishment of a "51st state," comprised of counties and cities, giving Boys Staters actual experience in control and creation of these units of government.
Contact
For information, contact NSU Admissions, 605-626-2544.
Mail is delivered daily to NSU and will arrive expeditiously if the Boys State city is part of the address.
Example:
(Boys Stater's name)
Boys State - City of (Boys State "city" name)
1200 S Jay St
Northern State University
Aberdeen, S.D. 57401-7198
Final Citizens Assembly
Families are welcome to attend the Final Citizens Assembly, which will include presentation of awards. Speaking will be the Boys State director and American Legion state commander.
Details
Boys State has been a program of The American Legion since 1935.
At American Legion Boys State, participants are exposed to the rights and privileges, the duties and the responsibilities of a franchised citizen. The training is objective and practical with city, county and state governments operated by the students elected to the various offices. Activities include legislative sessions, court proceedings, law enforcement presentations, assemblies, bands, chorus and recreational programs.
High school juniors are selected by local American Legion Posts to attend the program. In most cases, expenses associated with attending this program are paid by a sponsoring American Legion Post, a local business or another community-based organization.